Tile adhesive matters: How it separates cowboys from trusted Tilers
“Cheap tile adhesives may look similar to premium ones on the surface, but what’s inside makes all the difference. One key sign of poor-quality adhesive is its high sand content. ”
Don’t let your tiles down—literally
Not all tile jobs are created equal. While most people focus on choosing the perfect tile color or pattern, the real hero—or villain—lies beneath the surface: tile adhesive.
Using the right adhesive makes the difference between a durable, high-quality finish and a job destined for failure. It's also what separates a professional tiling company from a so-called "cowboy" tiler looking to cut corners.
In this article, we uncover what good tile adhesive looks like, how to spot poor-quality products, and why this one hidden layer is critical to your project’s success.
Why adhesive choice matters in tiling
Adhesive is what holds your tiles in place. Whether you're tiling floors, walls, wet areas, or exteriors, the bond between the tile and substrate must withstand:
Foot traffic and impact
Moisture and humidity
Thermal movement (especially with underfloor heating)
Structural shifts in the building
A good adhesive maintains its grip, flexibility, and integrity for years. A poor-quality one? It might work for a few months—then the cracks, loose tiles, or hollow spots begin to appear.
The two types of tiling companies
🟤 The cowboy tiler
They cut costs by using the cheapest adhesive on the shelf. They skip manufacturer instructions and mix by eye. The result?
Tiles that don’t adhere properly
Cracks in grout lines or tiles lifting within months
No accountability when things go wrong
Their priority is low cost, not quality.
🔵 The trusted professional
They invest in premium adhesives from reputable brands like Technokolla, Ardex or Bostik. They understand the technical requirements of the project and choose the right product based on:
Tile material (porcelain, ceramic, marble, natural stone)
Substrate type (concrete, timber, waterproofed surface)
Location (interior, exterior, wet areas)
Environmental exposure (sunlight, heat, moisture)
They follow mixing ratios, curing times, and drying guidelines—because they know the finish is only as strong as the foundation.
Low-quality adhesives: What to watch out for
Cheap tile adhesives may look similar to premium ones on the surface, but what’s inside makes all the difference. One key sign of poor-quality adhesive is its high sand content. These products are often bulked up with excess filler and minimal cement binders or polymers, which severely reduces their performance.
Using adhesive with a high sand content may save money upfront but will almost always lead to premature failure—especially in high-traffic, wet, or exterior environments.
How to Know You’re Hiring a Trusted Tiler
Here are signs your tiler isn’t cutting corners:
🔹 They ask about the tile type and substrate before quoting
🔹 They use the trusted adhesive brand and product
🔹 They take time to prepare surfaces properly
🔹 They are certified or qualified to apply adhesives in wet areas
The bottom line
Tile adhesive isn’t just glue—it’s the foundation of a long-lasting, high-quality tiling job. Choosing a tiler who uses premium adhesives and follows best practices could mean the difference between tiles that last years and tiles that fail in under 2 months.
At Cozy Tiling, we only use industry-leading adhesives tailored to your specific job. No shortcuts. No cheap substitutes. Just reliable, professional results.
Thinking about a tiling project? Contact us today—and rest easy knowing your tiles are built to last, from the ground up.
